Spider Calling It a Career at Penn State

In 1983, Brad Caldwell transferred to Penn State-University Park from the DuBois campus, and joined the football program as a student manager. 31 years later, the man known to Nittany Lion fans as Spider announced his retirement from the University. He will be moving full time to his Vermont vacation home with his wife, where he will begin working as the Fair Haven Union High School Activities and Athletics Director.

Spider spent 29 seasons with Joe Paterno, and continued on through the transition to Bill O'Brien.

Here's what Spider had to stay this morning:

Words cannot begin to express the gratitude I have towards Penn State for all of the opportunities it has given me through the years. The 'Penn State family,' from the lettermen, coaching staffs, managers, countless alumni and fans, is what makes Penn State a special place.

I'd like to thank, first and foremost, Coach Paterno, who became not only my coach, but a father and grandfather figure. He instilled in me the values and discipline that I carry with me today. I'd also like thank Coach O'Brien, for letting me be apart of two of the most special groups of players in Penn State history.

Finally I'd like to thank Coach Franklin for giving me an opportunity to be a part of his staff. The staff he has put together to lead Penn State to great things in the future made this a difficult decision.

College Gameday also produced this piece on Spider during the 2013 season

Congratulations, Spider, and best of luck in Vermont!